Explain the origins and growth of early labor unions in the United States. In what way did they change America? 

 

The origin and growth of the labor unions in the United States was informed by the need to protect the interest of workers. The origin of the labor union is traced back to the formative years of the American nation, during the late colonial period when a free wage-labor market emerged in the artisan trade. The establishment of the Federal Society of Journeymen Cordwainers in Philadelphia in 1794 to fight against wage reduction marked the beginning of labor union organization in America. During the rise of the industrial revolution, there was the formation of the Mechanics' Union of Trade Associations in Philadelphia in 1827 which had structural elements that identified their unionism. They fought against diluted and cheap labor and demanded for shorter workday. The establishment of the International Typographical Union in 1852, resulted in the national unions in the United States bringing together local unions which practiced the same trade. During this period, labor union were mostly formed by the skilled workers. The start of 21 century saw a rise the early labor unions which were inspired by the Ricardian labor theory of value and American ideals which emphasized social equality, virtuous citizenship, honest labor and independence. The rise of these unions was countered by the rise of industrial capitalism which resulted in adverse economic changes across various industries. industrial capitalism resulted in two distinct classes of the rich and poor hence, discriminations across labor unions. The labor unions started change America by relying on strikes and boycotts to appeal for higher wages, better working conditions and employee working rights.  For instance, the National Labor Union supported legislation which banned prison labor, advocated for the national currency reforms which changed the farm prices. The Knights of Labor resulted in improved wages, working hours and conditions of their members.